Stay vigilant against pasture dieback in southern Queensland
Pasture dieback is a rapidly developing concern in southern Queensland, with damage reported across many areas of the Border Rivers, Condamine, and Balonne catchments. Despite its widespread presence, many landholders remain unaware of the problem or overlook early symptoms on their own properties. Being proactive and equipped with the right knowledge is key for managing this issue effectively.
With optimal seasonal conditions fuelling early symptoms and mealy bug activity, southern Queensland producers are urged to stay alert for signs of pasture dieback. For many, the first step is acknowledging the presence of pasture dieback in the region and learning to identify early symptoms before the damage escalates.
Despite unseasonably wet conditions, producers across Southern Queensland have been gathering to learn more about this critical issue. The DPI Sown Pastures Team from Toowoomba recently hosted events in Condamine, Goondiwindi, and Dulacca, focusing on raising awareness, identifying early symptoms, and exploring management strategies.
Gavin Peck and Ted Callanan provided practical demonstrations, walking producers through the symptoms, identification of mealy bugs and management of pasture dieback. These field days provided attendees with a new confidence to assess their pastures and implement strategies to minimise dieback’s impact in the coming season.
Key takeaways included:
- Identification and awareness: recognising early symptoms and distinguishing harmful mealy bugs from beneficial insects.
- Management strategies: encouraging natural recovery and planning for pasture renovation to maintain productivity.
- Resilient species and legumes: sharing research on dieback-tolerant pasture species and legumes to enhance resilience.
One attendee commented, “I now understand there are management options available. Armed with this knowledge, I feel more prepared to address dieback if it affects my property.”
Producers are encouraged to stay vigilant and ask themselves key questions:
- Is there unexplained reddening, or yellowing in your pastures?
- Are there increasing dead patches being colonised by weeds and broadleaved plants?
- Can you find any pasture mealy bugs in the affected areas?
- Do you have a plan if dieback appears or worsens on your property?
Regular pasture checks are crucial to catching early signs of dieback and responding swiftly. By staying informed and prepared, producers can reduce the impact of pasture dieback on their operations.
These events, are supported by the Queensland Pasture Resilience Program, a partnership between the Department of Primary Industries, Meat & Livestock Australia, and the Australian Government through the MLA Donor Company.
For more information on identifying and managing pasture dieback check out: